There are several definitions of Latin America, but all of them define a huge expansive of geography with an incalculable amount of different customs, However, some generalizations can be made:
As every definition of Latin America connotes a shared cultural and linguistic legacy with roots in Spain and Portugal, and to a lesser extent France, many points of etiquette in Europe are applicable, especially those specific to those nations.
Compared to much of the English-speaking world, people from areas of Latin America may demonstrate more relaxed and casual behavior and be more comfortable with loud talk, exaggerated gestures and physical contact.[1]
In addition, many Latin American people have a smaller sense of personal space than people from English-speaking cultures. It may be rude to step away from someone when they are stepping closer.[1]
In addition to varying greatly from one individual to another and along various demographic lines, this tendency towards comparatively warm and relaxed behavior does not necessarily hold true among many communities of indigenous peoples, including those who have adopted Spanish or Portuguese as their primary language.
At some finer restaurants, it may be considered rude for the staff to bring a customer the check without the customer first requesting it.[2]
Getting the last snack or canape left in a plate without offering it around first makes the person seem rude/greedy.
It is considered impolite to "toss" objects to people instead of directly handing it to them.[3]
At the workplace, indiscretions, errors or overall poor performance should be pointed out in private. Mentioning them in front of other colleagues (such as in a meeting) is perceived as hostile.
The American "come here" gesture of palm upwards with the fingers curled back can be considered a romantic solicitation.[3]
Throughout Latin America, there are communities of people with strong ethnic and cultural ties to other parts of the world. One example is the 1.5 million strong Japanese Brazilian community for whom certain points of etiquette in Asia may be applicable. Some of these same points of etiquette would apply in Chinatowns in Latin America. Argentina has large communities of German Argentines, Irish Argentines, and so on.
In many instances, points of etiquette applicable to Latin America will also hold true with Latino people in the United States.
Phrases like "in America" or "I'm from America" when referring to the United States is confusing to Latin American people as America is a continent, not just the United States. Therefore, all people born in the American continent are Americans. People from the United States of America are referred to by their nationality, "estadounidense"or "Norte americano" (lit. "United-Statian" or "North-american).
Many elements of U.S. American culture left an imprint on life in Latin America, but be advised on ever bringing up topics or discussion of subjects about the impact of U.S. Foreign policy.
Argentina
Apart from going to church, Sunday is commonly the day Argentines gather in family for lunch or dinner.
Table manners are Continental - hold the fork in the left hand and the knife in the right while slicing.
Do not begin eating until the hostess invites you to do so.
When others are about to eat, it is very considerate to say "buen provecho" (good eating).
Wait for a toast to be made before taking the first sip of your drink.
A kiss in the cheek with or without a hug is a standard greeting amongst both men and women, except in very formal settings.++
When someone sneezes, you should say "Salud" (lit. "Health"). This is the equivalent for "bless you" in United States. The person who sneezed should respond with "Gracias" ("Thank you").
It is often considered rude to point at a person or even an object with the index finger. People typically point with the whole hand or with a movement of the head and a puckering of the lips towards that which is being indicated.
Argentina has more sociocultural connections with other European countries, same goes with Uruguay.
Please note Argentina and Uruguay are different countries.
Bolivia
There are important differences in social interactions and customs between the Andean area and the lowlands. The following apply mostly in the Andean area.
When hosting you need to serve any kind of food to your guest and insist that they eat. Putting a plate of finger food in the middle for people to help themselves creates an awkward situation for most Bolivians.
Bolivians acting as host will often belittle and apologize for the food they are serving. This is just politeness.
When you finish eating in company, even strangers, you must say "Buen provecho" or "Que aproveche". This is answered with "gracias" which is not followed by "de nada".
In the countryside guests will be served a plate and left alone to eat. This is courtesy and goes on until you've been accepted as a close friend of the family.
Andean people are not very tactile. Cheek-kissing with women is a sign of closeness. In the city any public display of affection between a couple, starting from holding hands, even if married, is at least awkward. Among young wipper-snappers, friends of the same sex may hold hands and even hold each other by the shoulder, in public. Handshakes are softer and as a show of appreciation may hold a little longer, only between friends of the same sex.
Brazil
Brazilians speak Portuguese, not Spanish. Addressing someone who speaks Portuguese in Spanish, although most Brazilians understand Spanish to a reasonable degree, may be considered very offensive.[4][5]
In Brazil, a form of the American "okay" gesture may be obscene when directed at someone. However, the standard "okay" gesture is also used, as is the "thumbs up" gesture.[6]
The number 24 is strongly associated with homosexuality in Brazil. Giving someone anything with that number (i.e. a jersey) might be badly understood, but playful among close friends.
The gesture of "flipping someone off" by hitting the wrist against the inside of the elbow (sometimes called "a banana" in Brazil) is considered playful and not very offensive (in some other parts of the world, this is more akin to "the finger").[6]
Giving someone of the opposite gender a gift may be misinterpreted as a romantic overture, except in birthdays.[7]
Men shake hands on meeting and departing. They may share a hug if they are close friends. Men and women kiss on the cheek when greeting, women kiss each other on the cheek. The number of times people should kiss, alternating sides, varies according to the region, being three, two times or just once.
Personal questions may be asked at an earlier time than what North Americans and Europeans are accustomed to. Nevertheless, questions about finances and personal gains are often considered rude.
When offering something, especially food, Brazilians will often repeat the offer several times and with increasing enthusiasm. Offering something only once can be rude. It is not impolite to refuse such offers, and in some cases they may be made just to be polite without really hoping a person will accept.
In some parts of the country, most notably in rural areas in which homes may not have doorbells, the appropriate action is to stand in the yard and clap one's hands. If no one comes to the door, then the visitor may approach the door, knock, and then step back away from the door and await a response. This is especially applicable in regards to small, thin-walled cottages that offer less privacy than homes in North America.[6]
People in Brazil use to be very receptive and not formal. Calling a young woman "Senhora" may be considered offensive. The word "Senhorita" (lit. little miss) is not used and is seen as an archaism.
Punctuality is not taken too seriously in Brazil. Showing up exactly on schedule for a party is very uncommon.
Chile
In Chile, good etiquette calls for wine to be poured with the right hand and wine glasses should always be held by the stem.[8]
The customer of a restaurant must ask for the check, otherwise it won't be brought.
In past generations it was somewhat common for women and young men to greet male and female friends with a kiss on the cheek. However, for may years the trend has been for a a cheek-kiss only between men and women (i.e., not between men, but typically yes between women). Close male friends more typically greet one another with an "abrazo" or male hug, which usually does not involve face contact.
Chileans tend to stand close to one another while talking and when in queues (lines). This is in part because chilenos typically do not recognise European queue etiquette and discipline.
Opening the door for a woman or helping her with her luggage, etc, are not considered flirtatious actions.
It is common for men to stare at women. (It is harmless and meant to flatter).
Women should be prepared to be bombarded with catcalls. (It is harmless and meant to flatter)
When eating in company you should not put your hands under the table.
Tipping to bellboys and people who pack things on the supermarket can be considered a must sometimes, thus when not doing so it is very recommendable to state you do not have money, but never that you do not want to do so.
It is well looked upon to give your seat to elderly people or pregnant ladies when inside public transport.
Chileans, both male and female, tend to use lots of rude words when in confidence. Do not take this as an insult, it's meant to be endearing, but do not try to use those words yourself as it will appear highly humorous to them.
When smoking, offer a cigarette to everyone. Chileans have a saying for those who neglect to share: "Did you learn to smoke in jail?"
If two or more people are having a conversation and you need to leave or want to leave it is well looked to say "disculpe" or "permiso" (excuse me).
It is usual to greet family members with a kiss on the cheek.
It is common for children to be prompted to greet everyone who already has greeted the adult that is with him or her.
Avoid discussion about politics (in regards to a history of democracy with civil unrest), authoritarian leaders (i.e. Pinochet), corrupt socialist leaders (e.g., Bachelet), and comments on Chile being backward (even though many chilenos will agree with such an observation). Similarly, avoid other third-world references such as the high crime rate, and the deplorable state of public education and prisons in Chile.
The term "caballero" is more commonly used than "señor" to politely address or refer to a male in public.
Colombia
Gifts are never opened in public unless the giver insists.
Group waves are extremely unacceptable.
After finishing dinner, expect to stay for a few hours. Leaving right away might be perceived as that you were there only for a free meal.
Avoid discussing the drug trade. This is a delicate subject in Colombia.
The elderly are given high respect; men are often referred to as Don and women as Doña, followed by their first names.
There is a strong sense of cultural regionalism in Colombian society. Many Colombians (especially but not exclusively the older generation) identify themselves first with their home region, then their nationality. This is particular true in Antioquia and Valle departments. Bogota for being Colombia's mixing pot might not necessarily reflect such regional identity.
Colombians that do not know each other typically begin every issue with small talk, no matter how trivial. "Getting to the point" immediately might be seen as impatient and impolite.
Colombians have a great variety of regional accents. If you speak fluent Spanish, do not try to imitate the accents, for it may be viewed unfavorably by some.
It is considered improper and slightly immature for adult men to wear shorts (except in recreational areas, such as parks, the beach, or pools).
It is not usually acceptable to drop by someone's house without calling.
In most areas (i.e. Bogotá) it is common for men to greet women friends kissing once on the cheek if they are friends. Kissing a stranger woman is considered impolite sometimes (more if you are in a Business gathering), especially if she is elder.
It is considered polite to say thanks after common actions such as someone opening a door, offering or giving something to drink or eat, or when plates are taken from the table, and after most rutinary actions whenever they are not expected.
When referring to someone's height in a conversation Colombians usually make a distinction between animals and humans in a visual manner by positioning their hand with the palm facing the floor when talking about animals and with the palm facing to the side (like when one is to give a handshake) when talking about humans height.
Most Colombian women in urban areas respond gladly to decent male flattering (known as piropo). This is quite different from other countries where such expressions could be seen as sexual advances.
People in Bogota and the center region of Colombia and to a lesser degree in some other parts of the country could be sensitive to the use of formal and informal Spanish. For example in a business meeting might not be appropriate to use the informal you (tu) instead the formal you is used (usted). See Spanish conjugation.
In Bogota the wearing of sandals or open shoes by women is frowned upon in some exclusive commercial locations.
Unlike the US, most (if not all) restaurants include the tip in the total amount to be paid by the costumer, you may choose to not pay it anyway.
Dominican Republic
Dominicans tend to be direct in social situations, but are subtle when making requests and offering criticism.
Personal questions may be asked at an earlier time than what North Americans and Europeans are accustomed to.
Dominican society is extremely family-oriented; thus, nepotism in organizations and workplaces is regarded as a good thing.
Avoid discussing Haitian immigration, Dominician emigration and racial identity (most of the population are mixed-race African/Caucasian). Most people will let you know what they want to speak about so just listen. Most Dominican love to talk about what is happening in the country; they might even battle each other about a certain topic.
Salsa, merengue and even reggaetón may seem like "sexy dancing", but there are unspoken rules. It is rude for a man to dance too close to a woman who is not his wife or girlfriend, even if others seem to be doing it. (The same rules apply in Puerto Rico.)
Dominican also expect you to look your best at all times. This is seen especially in the women who take pride in their appearance.
When an invitation is issued (such as to go to dinner or to a bar), invitees typically assume that everything will be paid for. The same is true in Mexico and in other parts of Latin America.
Dominican are extremely friendly people. They usually shake hands & give a kiss (cheeks) when they are introduced to someone or when they cross by a known friend.
The man is the one supposed to pay during a date.
A woman never approaches a man first (usually).
Is not considered polite to ask a woman about her age (also common in Puerto Rico and much of North America).
When you're eating and someone arrives, the eater says "a buen tiempo" (it means "you're arriving in good time") usually is polite to say "buen provecho" (it means "good eating") subtly meaning "have a nice meal.".
Dominicans LOVE to talk, but politeness is important in conversation.
Dominican are not punctual (this is more common in informal settings, less so in professional): it's usually around 40 minutes after the scheduled time. If you planned to meet at 8:00 they will show up at 8:40.
Ecuador
Visitors to Ecuador often marvel at the brightly-colored traditional attire of natives. However, it is impolite to photograph someone before asking permission. Some people will ask for a tip in exchange for this favor and to begrudge them this source of income is considered unkind.[8] Moreover, do not dress in traditional attire; this will be perceived as mocking the local culture. Only the natives are entitled to do so, not even Ecuadorians from the city (non-Indians and rural areas).
Beachwear should only be worn at the beach and not in towns. The same with short pants for grown- ups. (men and women)[8]
Never refer to someone as an "Indian", unless they happen to consider themselves so.
Men greet women, and women greet women, touching right cheek to right cheek and making a kissing sound. Not doing it is considered impolite.
When invited, it is consider impolite not to bring a present. (If not asked, never bring food, more appropriate would be flowers, wine, chocolates or a small toy for the host's child) The same when you are (even for a short time) meeting someone at their home and they offer snacks or something to drink. It is often polite to decline the first time, but not accepting later would be consider impolite.
Dance: (see Dominican Republic), Ecuadorian styles are more based on Andean and Colombian.
There is a strong sense of regionalism in Ecuadorian society. Many Ecuadorians identify themselves first with their home region (specially if they are from the coast or the highland), then their nationality.
While a few object to the title "American" in reference to citizens of the United States, most have no problem with this.
Politics are a controversial subject in the country. One should avoid talking about religion, politics, money or illness at dinner with (not so close) friends and strangers.
To blow one's nose in public, while eating or in a room is considered vulgar and one should try to avoid it. The same rule applies in Venezuela.
Ecuadorian society, like in most South American countries, is very conservative and foreigners (e.g. foreign exchange students, in-laws, but not necessarily tourists) should observe this and try to behave like their peers.
Like in most South American countries, unmarried childless (young) women should always be referred to as "señorita" and not "señora", otherwhise you could offend them. If unsure, it's better to say "señorita". If married, she will feel herself flattered and will immediately correct it. In addition, asking women about their age is considered rude.
Women expect doors to be opened for them by males, be helped with luggage etc. These actions are not construed as flirtatious.
When dealing with someone with an academic degree in a formal (e.g. at work) situation, it is usual to mention it. (Ingeniero/a, Licenciado/a, Doctor/a, Abogado/a, Economista, Contador/a, Arquitecto/a) If used outside a formal situation (e.g. between friends), the titles might sound sarcastic.
People's hygiene habits are very important, especially in the tropical climate of Guayaquil or other tropical cities in the country. People are expected to take one or more baths or showers daily. Body odor, unshaven legs and underarms in women, ugly or dirty bare feet, or wrinkled clothing and dirty shoes are considered disgusting. Many men wear cologne and have a comb with them. Women usually wear high heels. Never use sport (running) shoes at a formal restaurant, work or going out with friends at night.
Haiti
Although tied more closely to France than Spain or Portugal, the etiquette regarding Haiti are generally similar to other Latin American countries.
Haitians often signify particular people through appearances or characteristics. Calling someone "white man" (blan) and "the dark skinned one" (neg) are often mere terms of acknowledgement with no racist overtones.
Entering a household and not greeting the elders or owners of the household is regarded as highly offensive.
Being overly generous can be interpreted as offensive as to them it may seem as if you pity them.
Eating is considered a social event and so withdrawing from the center of activities during meals is considered slightly offensive.
Avoid discussing Dominican life to Haitians as well as the corruption within government, as these are sensitive subjects. (If you do not know about the subject)
The infamous Haitian Creole phrase "Langet Maman" is highly offensive, insulting one's mother. Uttering this to someone will almost positively provoke conflict.
Haitians use very good manners and take things seriously.
Haitians expect to haggle when making a purchase.
Men shake hands on meeting and departing, men and women kiss on the cheek when greeting, women kiss each other on the cheek. Friends, family and close acquaintances usually share a light kiss on the cheek.
Punctuality is not highly valued and being late is usually not considered rude.
People of the same gender holding hands is an ordinary display of friendship though women and men seldom show public affection toward the opposite sex but are affectionate in private.
Mexico
In some regions, the color purple is associated with funerals and should be avoided when giving flowers.[9]
The courtesy titles "Señora" and "Señorita" (Mrs. and Miss, respectively) are taken colloquially as "Married Woman" and "Virgin Woman". This follows Catholic prohibitions against intercourse outside of marriage. Hence, it is more polite to address even an elderly woman as "Señorita" if her marital status is unknown. To do otherwise impugns her character.
Many Mexicans tend to be religious (predominantly Catholic) and visitors in the country should not take religion lightly. Church tours in the country are very solemn, while non-Catholic churches are present, be advised to witness some Catholic practices (the "trinity cross" hand gesture/prayer salute) in tours.
When an invitation is issued (such as to go to dinner or to a bar), invitees typically assume that everything will be paid for by the inviter. However, if befriended for a long time, expenses can be shared and you can offer to pay (even with female friends).
Several kinds of food are eaten with the fingers (tacos, tortas, churros, etc.) Eating them with a fork and knife is viewed as both snobbish and comical. In case of doubt, follow the lead of other diners.
In some regions of Mexico, leaving an empty plate after dining is rude, whereas in some others is rude to leave it with food. Then again, in some regions it is appropriate to accept a second portion, while in others a rejection is expected; always speak clear about your eating in order to not get misunderstood.
Generally, but not as a rule, before starting to eat, say "Buen provecho" or simply "Provecho" (lit. I hope the food is good for you) is expected to wish the others at the table a good meal.(in the upper social classes in Mexico, this is considered common and exclusive for new rich)
Toasting with water (and, to a lesser degree, any non-alcoholic drink) is regarded as bad luck.
Going to the bathroom during any meal is not acceptable but even more so in formal situations.
The least a host can offer a visitor is a glass of water, but a lot of drinks can be offered (except alcoholic ones since those are reserved for special occasions or at the end of a meeting).
Women expect doors to be opened for them by males. This also applies to lighting of cigarettes, turning off mobile phones in dates or appointments, and helping them to their seat. None of these actions are construed as flirtatious.
Gender specific situations, phrases and behaviors are expected, although many upper-class Mexicans are less chauvinistic and biased towards women in social roles. Machismo (male assertiveness/aggressiveness) and feminity are important cultural values in conservative sections of the country.
As in the USA, unless service is atrocious, tips should never be below 10% of the bill total as they are commonly a waiter's main means of income. 15% or more is most appropriate.
When dealing with someone with an academic degree in a formal situation, it is usual to mention it. For a BA-level, the distinctions are clear (Ingeniero and Licenciado for graduates of Engineering programs or for most other fields, respectively). Afterwards, it's usual to call a Master "maestro" and a Doctor-level student "Doctor". If used outside a formal situation, the titles might sound ironic.
It is common for men to greet ladies (and vice-versa) by kissing one time on the cheek. It is not so common when introduced to someone for the first time, as this means closeness or relation.
When someone sneezes, you should say "Salud" (lit. "Health"). This is the equivalent for "bless you" in United States. The person who sneezed should respond with "Gracias" ("Thank you").
The use of the Mexican flag for any other reason than from national holidays (such as Independence Day) is considered a serious insult and faux pas for Mexicans, as so is painting, throwing, clothing it, etc. and is also penalized under the law.
Using Mexican Spanish phrases and interjections like "Chihuahua", "Caramba", "Ándale", "Taco" (Mexican Taco Bells advertise Tacos as Tacostadas or Tachitos) or "bad words" thinking that by doing so you will "blend in" is sometimes seen as mocking and disrespectful coming from tourists (especially Anglo-Saxons and white Europeans).
Mexican men can speak with dirty language (albur) among themselves (be this friends or relatives) and it is somewhat expected, depending on the cultural and the confidence level (as a foreigner you're not expected to speak so, though). But women must avoid this, for it is regarded as vulgar and low class. Even the terms for female genitalia are restrictive, like the term "Ahi Abajo" (down there) is the only proper word for the vagina.
Trying to use Mexican Spanish double entendre or albur is not recommended since the connotations of the double talk are usually sexual and may be used against the speaker. If keen on an explanaition of the double entendre it is recommendable to do so in a more private environment.
Be advised on socioeconomical issues (i.e. classism) are very strong and prevalent in the country.
Avoid discussions on politics, national differences between US and Mexico, and especially racial/ethnic issues. Mexican-Americans in the USA as an ethnic group experienced similar racism to that of black/African-Americans. Mexicans are highly aware of the historical conflict with the United States in this case, as well economic disparity, political crises and global diplomatic issues are not discussed without respect and appropriate sympathy. In fact, the Mexican Constitution specifically says that only Mexican citizens are to formally participate in the political arena.
Nicaragua
In Nicaragua, exchanges of hospitality are important. Refusing a drink (especially on a hot day) or not praising the host on the quality of the meal is considered rude.[9]
Exchanging greetings is also very important. Seeing (even at a distance) someone one knows typically prompts approaching them to exchanging handshakes and kisses as appropriate. Waves and verbal salutations do not suffice.[9]
Greeting someone with "Hello" is always followed by the appropriate time of day greeting; "Good day", "Good Afternoon", and, "Good Evening."
When speaking to an older adult, it is respectful to refer to them as "Don" or "Doña." This is a sign of respect.
Saying goodbye is said in two popular ways "Adios" and "Chau." Although "Chau" is derived from Italian language, it is used in Nicaragua and was brought by the large Italian immigrants.
Nicaraguans are very expressive and passionate. Hand movements are usually accompanied when speaking.
Salsa, merengue, bachata, and tango may seem like "sexy dancing", but there are unspoken rules. It is rude for a man to dance too close to a woman who is not his wife or girlfriend, even if others seem to be doing it.
Puerto Rico
When others are about to eat, it is very considerate to say "buen provecho" (enjoy your meal).
It is very common for members of the opposite sex or women to women to greet each other with a kiss on the cheek. This is never done between men however.
Appearing at your best is important, women take pride in femininity and flaunt their womanhood, while young men will dress in flashy styles and older men will dress as mature gentlemen. Going out at night is an especially important time to dress your best and trendy. Simple jeans and tshirt, khaki shorts, etc are considered tacky.
Among Puerto Ricans, conversations are usually very interactive and full of interruptions. If you're talking to someone else and a third person joins you, you are expected to stop what you're saying and acknowledge the newcomer.
Watching television is a very social activity. Asking for quiet is typically both unreasonable and impolite.
People's hygiene habits are scrutinized, especially in the tropical climate of Puerto Rico itself. People are expected to take one or more baths or showers daily. Body odor, unshaven legs and underarms in women, non-pedicured bare feet, or wrinkled clothing are considered disgusting. Designer perfumes and colognes are used by both sexes.
Salsa, merengue and even reggaetón may seem like "sexy dancing", but there are unspoken rules. It is rude for a man to dance too close to a woman who is not his wife or girlfriend, even if others seem to be doing it.
It is considered vulgar and ostentatious to open gifts in public. Gifts are never opened in front of a group of people to avoid people comparing the merits of different gifts.
Women in Puerto Rico are very independent and many of them dislike to feel patronized or bound to traditional roles. While talking to a woman in informal situations avoid calling them "señorita" (miss) or "señora" (Mrs), as they could interpret those titles as 'inexperienced'/'ignorant' or 'old'.
Political, racial and socioeconomic issues can be touchy subjects in Puerto Rico.
Peru
Waving at a stranger is awkward and should be avoided.
Using your index finger to motion a person to approach you, as practiced in the United States and other places, is considered rude. A more polite way to beckon someone is to place the palm down and gently sweep your fingers toward you.
In a gathering, you must greet each and everyone, especially the eldest.
In churches and monasteries, err on the side of discretion (low-rise pants, midriff shirts, peekaboo thongs, and anything else that reveals a lot of skin is not usually acceptable).
Discussion of drugs (and coca-plant cultivation) and religion should be handled with great tact.
In a country in which nearly half the population is Amerindian, expressing respect for native peoples is important. Try to refer to them not as indios, which is a derogatory term, but as indígenas.
Peruvians shake hands frequently and tirelessly, and although kissing on the cheek is a common greeting for acquaintances, it is not practiced among strangers (as it is in Spain, for example). Amerindian populations are more conservative and even shy. They don't kiss to greet one another, nor do they shake hands as frequently as other Peruvians; if they do, it is a light brush of the hand rather than a firm grip. Many Indians from small villages are reluctant to look a stranger in the eye.
Photographing military, police, or airport installations is strictly forbidden. Many churches, convents, and museums also do not allow photography or video.
Be sure not talk too much or in depth about the incident of Sendero Luminoso ("Shining Path", a guerrilla movement).
Peru, like most of South America, has a problematic history with politics. It is advised not to bring it political issues casually.
Venezuela
In Venezuela, it is often considered rude to point at a person or even an object with the index finger. People typically point with the whole hand or with a movement of the head and a puckering of the lips towards that which is being indicated.
In many situations, punctuality is less important than it is for people elsewhere. Showing up exactly on schedule for a party or gathering is undesirable. However, punctuality is expected for business matters.
People tend to stand very close together when carrying on a conversation. Venezuelans often touch each other’s arms or shoulders during it.
Coffee or a cold drink is typically offered to guests. It is often polite to decline.
Street directions are expected to be given in a very detailed manner, very often describing trees and the color of buildings near by. Omitting an obvious landmark such as a mango tree or a bright red wall is considered careless.
When a male is introduced to a female, it's expected for the male to make the motion and kiss the female once on the cheek along with a handshake. The handshake should start gentle and match to the female's grip.
When visiting someone's home, remember to bring along something for the house. For example, a small decorative piece if you are familiar with the decorative style, a dessert, or a bottle of the man of the house's favorite alcoholic beverage. For an informal lunch visit, it is common to bring fresh bread from one of the numerous bakeries, desserts, soda, wine, or beer. For breakfast, white cheese or shredded beef for the arepas are always welcome. In any case, it is always rude to show up empty-handed.
Phrases like "in America" or "I'm from America" when referring to the United States is confusing to Latin American people as America is a continent, not just the United States. Therefore, all people born in the American continent are Americans. People from the United States of America are referred to by their nationality, "estadounidense."
For business or informal matters, it is good practice to follow up morning appointments with an invitation to lunch.
Unlike lunch, dinner is for socializing, not for business.
When dining, wait until everyone is served before beginning to eat.
Before starting to eat, saying "Buen provecho"(lit. I hope the food is good for you) is expected to wish the others at the table a good meal. The others will say "gracias" and repeat the phrase "buen provecho" so everybody at the table has a good meal.
Avoid making noises with your cutlery on the plate. Do not bite on your fork or spoon.
Meals are to be enjoyed with conversations, as long as there are not mouths showing food in it. Swallow first-talk later, or cover your mouth while with food in it.
To indicate you have finished eating, place your cutlery in parallel and diagonally across your plate.
Expect to stay for a couple more hours more after dinner, leaving right away might be perceived as that you were there only for a free meal. Coffee and liquour, as digestive aids, will be offered.
To blow one's nose in public, while eating or in a room is considered vulgar and disgusting, and one should try to avoid it. The restroom is the appropriate place to do it.
When entering a room with other people, it is a friendly and informal gesture to say just "Buenas" instead of the full "buenos dias" (good morning) or "buenas tardes" (good afternoon). However it is always appropriate to say the complete "buenos días" and "buenas tardes/noches" in formal situations.
Shorts and other forms of beachwear are appropriate only in those environments.
When someone sneezes, you should say "Salud" (lit. "Health"). The person who sneezed should respond with "Gracias" ("Thank you").
Argentina
Bolivia
There are important differences in social interactions and customs between the Andean area and the lowlands. The following apply mostly in the Andean area.Brazil
Chile
Colombia
Dominican Republic
Ecuador
Haiti
Mexico
Nicaragua
Puerto Rico
Peru
Venezuela